A train service given a £2m boost through local and national funding – including via the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership – to improve passenger journeys, was officially introduced today (Wednesday May 13).
East Midlands Trains said its Castle Line timetable – which runs services between Nottingham, Newark Castle and Lincoln Central – will now have:
- 25 additional trains weekdays, between Nottingham and Newark Castle
- faster journey times on the majority of services to Lincoln
- the majority of current Matlock – Nottingham services extended to Newark Castle
- more trains for all stations, with intermediate stations enjoying more weekday services.
The improved service was developed by East Midlands Trains with partners and funders the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership and Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership; the Department for Transport; Nottingham City, Nottinghamshire County, Newark & Sherwood District and Gedling Borough councils; City of Lincoln, Lincolnshire County and North Kesteven District councils; and Newark Business Club.
The New ‘Lincoln Castle Explorer’ the inaugural train on the improved services
The D2N2 LEP is a partnership between business, local authorities, and higher and further education providers, which promotes economic growth and jobs creations across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. It is a significant investor in public transport improvement schemes across its catchment.
Jake Kelly, Managing Director for East Midlands Trains, said: “I am absolutely delighted that we have today introduced our new and much improved services, for the communities and businesses along the Castle Line.
“The new services are a particular boost to the smaller, intermediate stations along the route, as many of them will now have more services than they have ever had in more than a century. This is a real boost for the region and we are over the moon to have worked closely with so many partners and supporters to make this happen.
“However, we are far from complacent and know there is still more we can do to improve services for the Castle Line, and we will continue to work hard with our partners, to make further improvements.”
David Ralph, Chief Executive of the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership, added: “The D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership has already invested in a number of key infrastructure projects to benefit public transport users, cyclists and pedestrians. Connectivity is a vital ingredient in driving forward economic growth and this service will significantly improve east-west links.”
The new Castle Line timetable is available to view on website www.eastmidlandstrains.co.uk
Media wanting further information on the Castle Line service can contact Stagecoach Group Corporate Communications on 01738 442111 or email: media@stagecoachgroup.com
Further information on the work of the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership can be obtained from Sean Kirby, D2N2 Communications Officer, on 0115 9578749 or email: sean.kirby@d2n2lep.org
